A Bhilai Juice Shop To Dubai: Sourabh Chandrakar, now in Indian custody after extradition from Oman, began far from the glitz of Dubai. He is from Bhilai in Chhattisgarh, where he and his brother reportedly ran a small juice shop before he left for the UAE in 2019.
Building The Mahadev Network
Investigators say that move marked the start of the Mahadev Online Book network. Along with co-founder Ravi Uppal, Chandrakar allegedly ran the operation from Dubai, offering illegal betting on cricket and other sports through franchise partners across India. The ED puts the alleged proceeds of crime at Rs 6,000 crore.
The Rs 200 Crore Wedding That Drew Scrutiny
The case drew wider attention after his lavish wedding in Ras Al Khaimah in February 2023. The ED alleges that around Rs 200 crore was spent in cash, with private jets arranged for relatives and celebrities booked to perform.
Years On The Run
Chandrakar was put under house detention in Dubai in December 2023 and formally arrested in October 2024, but he was never sent to India. He was finally detained in Oman on July 8, reportedly on a forged Indonesian passport.
Back In India To Face Cases
The CBI escorted him home on November 1. He is wanted in two CBI cases and one ED case, and he and Uppal have denied involvement in the racket.
Discover Folk Culture With Bangla Pulse
1. Where are Baul festivals celebrated in Bangladesh during winter?
Baul festivals are celebrated in different parts of Bangladesh, including Kushtia and Sylhet, where folk music, spiritual traditions and cultural gatherings bring communities together. Read more about Baul festivals in Kushtia and Sylhet during winter.
2. Why is Kushtia famous for Baul music?
Kushtia is closely associated with Baul traditions and the legacy of Lalon Shah, whose songs explore humanity, spirituality and the search for truth. Discover more about Baul festivals in Kushtia and Sylhet during winter.
3. What can visitors experience at a Baul festival in Bangladesh?
Visitors can experience live folk performances, traditional instruments, spiritual songs and gatherings that celebrate Bengal’s musical heritage. Explore our guide to winter Baul festivals in Kushtia and Sylhet.
4. Why are Baul songs important to Bengali culture?
Baul songs express ideas about humanity, love, spirituality and inner freedom. Their distinctive musical style and philosophical themes have made them an important part of Bengal’s cultural heritage. Learn more about Baul festivals in Kushtia and Sylhet.
5. Is winter a good time to explore Baul culture in Bangladesh?
Winter can be a rewarding time to explore Baul culture, as cultural gatherings and folk music events may take place in different regions. Visitors should check local festival dates before travelling. Read our guide to Baul festivals in Kushtia and Sylhet during winter.
